Match Ratings

Last updated : 11 January 2004 By Rob Davies
A battling display, one in which should have done enough to earn The 'Pies at least a point, but it wasn't to be.

A much improved display from most players, and yet it's still hard to pick-out an outstanding performer.

Ratings

Steven Mildenhall- 5, One excellent stop in the second half, but the blame for their winner can be laid at his door. Appeared to pull off a "camera save" when he really should have held the free-kick, or at very least, parried it behind to safety. Mills' post-match interview would suggest he's on thin ice.

Nicky Fenton- 6, Completely disagree with NCM's match reporter, Richard Brown, who claimed he was our best player. No way, Rich! Fenton is not a right back and it'd probably be better off putting Barras there, he's that poor. Nearly got on the score-sheet twice, while he was booked for dissent.

Tony Barras- 6, Had a great game up until he picked up a knock towards the end of the first half. Was a yard of the pace after that, unfortunately.

Ian Richardson- 8, Another great show. Countless saving tackles, again and Mills is sure to recognize how vital Mr. Richardson is to Notts' cause.

Kevin Nicholson- 7, Had a pretty good game. Was firmly in control, but struggled when Bristol brought their new right winger on. Still could do with improving his distribution, but has steadilly improved in recent weeks.

Paul Bolland- 8, A different player. "The flying winger" as he's now named put in a great cross for our goal and battled even harder than usual in midfield. Might be better suited to right back.

Darren Caskey- 6, Apart from a 5 minute spell at the end of the first half where he thought he was Zinedene Zidane, was never really in the game and especially faded in the second.

Michael Brough- 8, Always gave 110% and turned in his best display of the season by a mile. Enthusiasm probably out weigh's ability, but put in some solid blocks and tackles throughout the game.

Paul Riley- 6, Couldn't quite match up to his mid-week heroics, but put in a battling display. Came close to scoring twice early-on and did cause them problems.

Tony Hackworth- 7, Credit where credits due, Tony put in a good all-round display this afternoon. His first touch was excellent, and he linked up well with the midfield, who were often lacking in support. Still seems to lack confidence, but probably put in his best display in a Notts shirt today.

Mark Stallard- 8, Like many others, looked a different player from the one of recent weeks. His work-rate was quite brilliant and he held the ball up well, but still lacks the goal-scoring touch that he's had in recent seasons. Unlucky not to score, when denied by a top save from Phillips.

Subs

Shaun Harrad (On 85- Hackworth)- 6, Eager. Should get a longer chance to impress soon.

Willis Francis (On 85- Bolland)- 6, See Harrad.

Manager

Gary Mills- 10, Star Man. Did everything right today. Left the selection to John Gaunt, but was animated on the touchline, warmed his players up and also introduced the pre-match huddle, which is a good team building exercise.
Monday morning will be when the hard-work will all really begin.